In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with David Knott, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Community Fund — the UK’s largest grant-maker, awarding more than £700 million last year to over 12,000 community projects.

David reflects on his career across public service, including time in the Prime Minister’s office, and shares what he’s learned since stepping into the charity sector. The conversation dives into the future of funding, from how AI could streamline grant applications to why community resilience and adaptability are more important than ever.

He also opens up about the realities of leadership — the isolating moments, the need for support networks, and the lessons he’d pass on to his younger self.

Whether you’re leading a charity, applying for grants, or curious about the changing role of the sector, this is a must-listen episode packed with insights.

👉 To find out how you can apply for National Lottery Community Fund support — especially for environmental projects — visit: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

Key takeaways

• The National Lottery Community Fund makes a grant every eight minutes

• Community resilience is central to tackling today’s challenges

• AI could transform the way charities apply for funding — but it must keep the human touch

• Charities play a powerful role in shaping public policy

• Leadership in the sector can feel isolating — but support is out there

• Moving from government to charity demands a fresh approach to leadership

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to David Knott and the National Lottery Community Fund

• 08:19 – David’s journey into the charity sector

• 12:03 – Leadership challenges in government and charity

• 19:44 – The evolving role of charities

• 23:11 – Responding to the cost-of-living crisis

• 28:20 – Making funding accessible and streamlined

• 31:17 – The role of AI in grant applications

• 33:27 – Connecting charities across regions

• 36:40 – Support systems for charity leaders

• 41:38 – Advice to his younger self

• 43:20 – Series 2 outro

Listen & share
🎧 The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow on your favourite platform — and don’t forget to like, share, and leave a review to help inspire the next generation of changemakers.